Jingu: The Hidden Princess

Author: Ralph Pray
Illustrated by: Xiaojun Li
Hardcover: 80 page(s)
Age Range: 9 - 12

Book Description:

To young Princess Jingu, the Japanese Imperial Palace in the 4th century is full of secrets. Why is she not allowed any visitors or friends when other children run and play together? Why is she the only princess with a private teacher from China? Her life within the palace walls is solitary and studious, and she has only her servants, teachers, and faithful cat Skoki to keep her company. But on Jingu-???+-?-+s 10th birthday, she receives a gift from the Emperor with a mysterious message hidden inside, and everything changes.

Explore the fascinating world of ancient Japan in this historically-based account of a young princess-???+-?-+ journey from girl to true leader. As her travels take her from a tiny fishing village to the grandeur of the Emperor-???+-?-+s chambers, Jingu must find out what, and who, is hidden beyond the paper walls of her home secretly guiding her future. Only then will she face her destiny and take her rightful place in the magnificent history of Japan.

Small Press Book
When she turns ten, Jingu receives a mirror as a gift from the Emperor with writing on it that calls her the "Imperial Princess Jingu." This is a message that she has been singled out by the Emperor to on day be the Empress. In the meantime, however, Jingu travels and continues her education and training as a woman in first-century A.D. Japan. Middle-grade readers learn about the customs and society of ancient Japan in this tale based on historical fact."

Children's Bookwatch
"Set in 4th century Japan, Jingu: The Hidden Princess by Ralph Pray is the story of Jingu, a young princess who feels isolated and alone within the Imperial Japanese Palace. On her tenth birthday, Jingu receives a gift from the Emperor with a mysterious hidden message, and so her journey and transformation from girl to leader begins. Firmly grounded in history, written with majesty, grace, warmth, and understanding, and enhanced with illustrations by Xiaojun Li, Jingu: The Hidden Princess is an emotional and highly enjoyable coming of age book especially recommended for preteen young adult readers."